James Henderson was born and educated in Guernsey. He made his debut as an organist on the organ of the Town Church in St Peter Port.

He graduated with Honours from the University College of Ripon and York, St John – where he was also awarded the College Organ Scholarship. In 1992 he was appointed as Organist and Choirmaster at the Lutheran Church in the municipal town of Tolga, Norway.

In 1994, following his return to Guernsey, James became the director of music at the Town Church, St Peter Port and in 2003 was appointed Head of Music at the Ladies College, Guernsey.